I watched all four lessons, and the point is made that DSOS=good. In vid#4 the White player is completely hamstrung and crushed. Maybe Eugene could parse a game in which DeathStarOpeningStartegy failed, and he was crushed--another in which DSOS failed as a primary strategy, yet he fights through for a win. These two games in a fifth video would deliver a comprehensive, objective, and instructive tutelage on DSOS.

I don't quite follow the dark square strategy in the accerated dragon under discussion, as black also has most of his pawns on light squares, though I understand his piece placement allowed him better control of the dark squares, most obviously at the conclusion of the game. If I had played that game, I would have been a bit concerned about my own dark squares in case of an accident, but that shows a gap in my understanding. I did enjoy the game very much.

Great video. This whole series has demonstrated how to make consistent choices, not just in a single game, but in a whole repertoire.

Tactic Alert! Right before 13:00, GM Perelshteyn mentions he can't play 22... Rh5 because of 23 f4, hitting the bishop and rook. However, there is an incredible winning tactical sequence following 23... Qg5!!. White is lost whether he accepts or declines the queen. Work it out. (I found it only with computer help, so I'm not criticizing GM Perelshteyn. I mention it only because it is a fantastic sequence I think you will enjoy seeing.)

Post your reply:

Thematic Openings: The Dark Square Repertoire - Part 4

In part 4 of his series on the Dark Square Opening Strategy, GM Perelshteyn reviews a game of his own from a local tournament in New Hampshire. He highlights the "cohesiveness" of black's development, the common goals shared by all the pieces, and how this ultimately led to a crushing attack on the kingside against FIDE Master Braden Bournival.

GM Perelshteyn learned chess from his father, a professional chess coach. His record of accomplishments is long; some of his honors include: 2000 US Junior Champion, represented the U.S. in 5 World Jr. Championships, led UMBC to 5 national college titles, and first place in 2003 Generation Chess Invitational, 2006 Foxwoods Open, and 2007 Spice Cup. As a chess teacher, he is the author of two bestsellers: Chess Openings for Black, Explained and Chess Openings for White, Explained (with GMs Dzindzihashvili and Alburt).

Help us finish translating:

We are working hard to make Chess.com available in over 70 languages. Check back over the year as we develop the technology to add more, and we will try our best to notify you when your language is ready for translating!